Leaselands Spring

Wood, Forest in Essex Uttlesford

England

Leaselands Spring

Gallows Green Road The village of Lindsell is a little way ahead. — Gallows Green Road Credit: Marathon

Leaselands Spring is a picturesque woodland located in Essex, England. Situated within the larger area known as Leaselands Forest, this enchanting natural wonder is a haven for nature lovers and hikers alike.

Covering an area of approximately 100 acres, Leaselands Spring boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna. The woodland is characterized by tall, majestic oak and beech trees, which provide a dense canopy and a sense of tranquility. The forest floor is adorned with a carpet of bluebells and other wildflowers during the spring months, creating a stunning display of colors.

The highlight of Leaselands Spring is undoubtedly the natural spring that gives the woodland its name. The crystal-clear water emerges from the ground, forming a small stream that meanders through the forest. The sound of babbling water and the sight of sunlight filtering through the trees make this spot a favorite for photographers and those seeking peaceful solitude.

Leaselands Spring is also home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors may catch a glimpse of deer, foxes, and various bird species, including woodpeckers and owls. The woodland provides a vital habitat for these creatures, offering shelter and a source of food.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Leaselands Spring offers a network of well-maintained walking trails, allowing visitors to explore the woodland at their own pace. The trails range in difficulty, catering to both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes. Along the way, informative signage provides insights into the local flora and fauna, creating an educational experience for all.

Overall, Leaselands Spring is a hidden gem in Essex, offering a serene and captivating escape into nature. Its beauty and biodiversity make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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Leaselands Spring Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.901187/0.38960599 or Grid Reference TL6425. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Gallows Green Road

The village of Lindsell is a little way ahead.

Marathon

Approach to St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell

Pevsner describes St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell as "A charming approach through the yard of Lindsell Hall." The church tower can just be seen peeping over the barn.

Marathon

Lindsell Lane

This is at Church End, Lindsell. The lane on the right leads past the cricket ground.

Marathon

The Cottage, Lindsell

This view is just next to the cricket ground. The lane leads eventually to Great Easton.

Marathon

St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell

Marathon

St Mary the Virgin Churchyard, Lindsell

Pevsner describes St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell as "A charming approach through the yard of Lindsell Hall." He goes on to say "The church is small and compact, and of an unusual colour ... The tower moreover is in an unusual position, at the south-west end. It is of the late 16th century, stone, with diagonal buttress and battlements." The nave shows evidence of a Norman building. The churchyard too is delightful and has the feel of a real country churchyard. It is peaceful and this path to the south of the church descends beyond the churchyard into woodland.

Marathon

Path in St Mary the Virgin Churchyard, Lindsell

Marathon

St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell

Pevsner describes St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell as "A charming approach through the yard of Lindsell Hall." He goes on to say "The church is small and compact, and of an unusual colour ... The tower moreover is in an unusual position, at the south-west end. It is of the late 16th century, stone, with diagonal buttress and battlements." The nave shows evidence of a Norman building. The churchyard too is delightful and has the feel of a real country churchyard. It is peaceful and a path to the south of the church descends beyond the churchyard into woodland - see Link

Marathon

Interior of St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell

Pevsner describes St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell as "A charming approach through the yard of Lindsell Hall." He goes on to say "The church is small and compact, and of an unusual colour ... The tower moreover is in an unusual position, at the south-west end. It is of the late 16th century, stone, with diagonal buttress and battlements." The nave shows evidence of a Norman building. The arch to the chancel is clearly Norman and to the right of it is a squinch arch which enabled members of the congregation in the south aisle to see the communion in the chancel. The glass in the east window dates from the 13th century to the 16th century.

Marathon

Anchorite cell in St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell

Pevsner describes St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell as "A charming approach through the yard of Lindsell Hall." He goes on to say "The church is small and compact, and of an unusual colour ... The tower moreover is in an unusual position, at the south-west end. It is of the late 16th century, stone, with diagonal buttress and battlements." The nave shows evidence of a Norman building. The arch to the chancel is clearly Norman. The small door to the left of the chair is the hatch to an anchorite's cell. This was only discovered in 1927 and the hatch into the chancel was its only opening - see Link

Marathon

Interior of St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell

Pevsner describes St Mary the Virgin Church, Lindsell as "A charming approach through the yard of Lindsell Hall." He goes on to say "The church is small and compact, and of an unusual colour ... The tower moreover is in an unusual position, at the south-west end. It is of the late 16th century, stone, with diagonal buttress and battlements." The nave shows evidence of a Norman building. The arch to the chancel is clearly Norman and to the right of it is a squinch arch which enabled members of the congregation in the south aisle to see the communion in the chancel. Beyond the chancel arch, the small door to the left of the chair is the hatch to an anchorite's cell. This was only discovered in 1927 and the hatch into the chancel was its only opening - see Link

Marathon

Fallow field corner by Bigod's Wood

Much sedge, left fallow probably for the benefit of game. It was pleasing to see a couple of the little Grizzled Skipper butterflies making use of it as well.

Robin Webster

Field edge track and public footpath

Heading towards Bigods Hall Farm.

Robin Webster

Private track to Bigod's Wood

The half-hidden sign on the right advises that it is private and firearms are in use.

Robin Webster

Private property Please keep out

And a hand addition beneath is 'Essex Farms'. These are frequently encountered in this area by those straying from the right-of-way. In this case there is a good excuse - you have to stray some way to actually read the sign.

Robin Webster

A field of peas

Probably grown as a nitrogen fixing fertilizer rather than as a crop. The barns beyond are at Holt's Farm.

Robin Webster

Field edge path

The mapped public route is shown as cutting the corner of the field on the left, reaching this route a little way ahead, and then passing through the marshy, scrubby area on the right with a crossing of a stream somewhere in the middle. There was no sign of either of these, and the only practical route is to follow the cultivated field edges round the marshy area.

Robin Webster